2022-12-03 - The Jackson Times

Guitar Lessons At Elks Lodge Help Vets With PTSD

Officials Oppose Sex Ed, Grief Counseling

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – Members of the governing body gave support to a state assembly bill involv ing sex education and questioned different legislation that would mandate grief counsel ing in high schools.

Councilman Nino Borrelli noted a town ship resolution that “supports Assembly Bill A-4801 that is sponsored by our for mer council colleague 12 th District Assem blyman Alex Sauickie that directs the State Board of Education to rescind the graphic and perverse sex education and health and physical education standards which they adopted during the height of the pandemic.”

Physical Education guidelines are 66 pag es long, and actual ly contain very little about sex ed. However, some expressed con cern about things like anal and oral sex being mentioned – although districts had control over how little detail they would include.

Politicians attacked the guidelines, assert ing that introducing gay fictional characters or information about real LGBTQ+ people in history to children at a young age would turn children gay. Parents said these are conver sations that belonged in the home.

The state’s guide lines can be found here: nj.gov/education/ cccs/2020/2020%20

By Bob Vosseller

The LZ Jersey Band, made up mostly of Jackson Elks Lodge 2744 members, performed for vets. son Elks Lodge each month.

JACKSON – A hot lunch, some friendly conversation and some music by a band made up of local veterans is all part of the com fortable atmosphere featured at the Jack

Elks Lodge 2744 Ex alted Ruler Joe LaM onica said, “we start ed a new program for our veterans. First, we have a member, (Den nis Champ) who gives

free guitar lessons to vets. Then we have a luncheon we set up for them. They also get entertained by a band made up of all veterans and most are our mem bers. They are called LZ Jersey.”

Champ of Toms River said, “I’m a member of the Elks club here. I started with the guitar class for vets nine or 10 years ago at the Vets Center in Lakewood. Charlie Worth was the (Vets - See Page 4)

Sheriff’s Officers Detail Border Crisis On Recent Assignment

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – Two Ocean County Sheriff’s Department officers bringing a fugitive back to New Jersey partici pated in a unique train ing exercise on their way to Yuma, Arizona.

“Knowing that one of the guys we were send ing down speaks Span ish, I figured this was a

chance to give them the experience of going to the border,” said Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy. “I called up some of my Sheriff’s friends down there, Sheriff (Mark) Daniels in Cochise County and Yuma County Sheriff (Leon) Wilmont who I am on the Board of Directors with on the National Sheriff’s As

sociation.”

Mastronardy said he felt both Sheriff’s of ficers Juan Mercado and Geoff Hyatt would benefit from training related to what’s hap pening at the border.

After flying into Phoe nix on a Wednesday, Mercado and Hyatt drove southeast to Co chise County to spend the day with the Coch

ise County Sheriff. A day later, the two offi cers met with Sheriff Wilmont to see a differ ent view of the United States/Mexico border. That Friday, Mercado and Hyatt returned to New Jersey with the prisoner.

“The border is so many miles and not enough law enforce ment officers to cover

it,” summed up Mer cado. “The amount of illegal people coming across is just over whelming.”

The Sheriff’s officers noticed people walk ing towards the border with their backpacks on in broad daylight. As early as 10 in the morning, Mercado and Hyatt watched as (Officers - See Page 5)

The state’s Compre hensive Health and

NJSLS-CHPE.pdf

(Officials - See Page 18)

Holiday Meals To Be Given, Thanks To Students

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - Some 3,000 of the needy in Ocean and Monmouth Coun ties will have a Thanks giving meal with all the fixings due to the hard work of culinary arts students at the Brick center of Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS).

No one is exactly sure when “Feed the Need” started - the best guess is somewhere around

25 to 30 years ago - but it began when a church group asked if the culi nary arts students could prepare 25 meals, said vo-tech teacher, Chef Gary Lesniak.

The program has grown and grown over the years as the need became greater, he said, and they try not to turn anyone away.

OCVTS partners with Fulfill Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean (Meals- See Page 6)

─Photo by Bob Vosseller

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Vets: Continued From Page

1

director there and he started the program. It was music for PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).

“I branched off and started a group in Manala pan which I still have. I do that on Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. and then here I do it on Thursdays. We do it every week so if there are any vets out there who want to play - come on down and play,” Champ said.

Champ added, “the music has helped a lot of these guys who are suffering with PTSD and it takes you away from that. I love doing it. We’re just having fun.”

He is part of the LZ Jersey Band that performs at the luncheons and at other events. “A bass player ‘Bootsie’ here that has since passed due to cancer, he started the band. It has been good. I look forward to working with vets. I like to see them come in and join us as it is a lot of fun.”

Champ added that he has guitars that vets can practice on if they don’t already have one. This marked the lodge’s third veterans’ lun cheon and it is usually on a monthly basis but Champ said the event needs more awareness. “It is hard to get the crowd out. If vets already have an instrument and they play, they are more than welcome to join us. That is how the band started as a matter of fact. Everybody that was in the class got together and started playing.”

The band is made up from those from various communities such as Toms River, Hamilton, Lakewood and Manchester.

“The Elks are great to us. They do a lot for

vets,” Champ added.

Luncheon Cook and Chairman of the Board of Directors for the lodge Tim Murphy said, “the luncheons started after Memorial Day or right around that time we started using our grills for hot dogs and hamburgers and then we decided to do it every other month to bring people in.

“The last time we had a gentleman who served in four wars. He was very interesting to talk to and meet. Other times we’ve had some organi zations that have helped veterans come in and do a talk and hand out paperwork to make sure they get all the services they need,” he said.

“We’ve been averaging 25-30 attendees,” Murphy said. “We are currently collecting food and donations for veterans for this time of year. The whole idea of the Elks is charity. We’re here to serve veterans and anyone in the community.”

Murphy added, “we are currently collect ing food and donations for food baskets for families and veterans for the holidays. People who wish to help can call our number which is 732-363-4101.We can make an appointment to meet here.”

LaMonica noted that Elks invest in their communities through programs that help children grow up healthy and drug-free, honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans, and improve the quality of life.

For more information about the guitar lesson program or participating with the LZ Band e-mail Champ at DSCLNC1953@gmail.com or call him at 732-239-6288.

For information about the veteran cuncheons contact Tim Murphy, by calling or texting 732-740-6906.

Officers:

various individuals looked for openings to make it into the United States.

Not all attempting to come across the border originated from Spanish-speaking countries, like those in Central America or South America. Some have traveled from far away places such as Afghanistan, the Ukraine and China, and are looking to seek asylum in the United States.

A designated entry point at the border processes those who turn themselves in to authorities.

“In the 20 minutes before we got there,” Hyatt said. “They already had about 200 people come right through. They had offi cers standing there waiting, knowing they were coming there.”

On a daily basis, thousands of people come through the detention area after they’re processed, they said.

Cartels appear to play a significant role in bringing the groups to the border – regard less of the country of national origin for those coming into the states. All migrants are expected to pay the cartels massive amounts of money.

“They control the whole border along the Mexican side,” shared Hyatt. “All the towns and all the paths to get to the other side.”

Cochese County authorities advised the two Ocean County Sheriff’s officers that the same is true even on the American side. There are stash houses for humans and for drugs.

“Some of the illegals that come over are put in safe houses,” Mercado added. “Now they have to pay the rest of the money they didn’t pay to come across. They have to work for the cartels to pay off the rest of the money they owe.”

The numbers can be as high as tens of thousands of dollars.

Meanwhile, transportation of illegals from Phoenix to other cities has become another booming business. Individuals are charged from $700-$900 each to hitch rides in ten-person vans.

Once a crowd of people entering illegally assembles, officers on the United States side are expected to process them. The proce dure can take hours and includes working with Border Patrol officers.

Both officers acknowledged that many people coming over the border do so to find work and a better life. However, there’s no way of telling their backgrounds and if their intent represents harm to those settled on the American side.

According to Hyatt, he and Mercado had a hard time booking a hotel in Cochese County. Hyatt attributed their frustration with the fact that the government pays for hotel rooms for those who cross until family members come to claim them.

The Border Wall

The entire U.S.-Mexico border is approxi mately 1,933 miles. There was some kind of wall or barrier on 654 miles of this before Donald Trump became president.

During Trump’s presidency, 458 miles of (Officers - See Page 13)

Meals

Counties, who provided some 500 frozen turkeys. The birds arrived on November 4, just before the fall school break, he said.

It took a full week for the turkeys to defrost in the refrigerator, so when the students returned from break on November 14, they deboned them since they other

wise wouldn’t fit in the ovens, Lesniak said.

The culinary arts students learn that dark meat typically takes longer to cook since it contains fat, and the bones are used to make stock for the gravy, Lesniak said.

It takes more than just turkey to make a Thanksgiving meal. Tommy Yanisko, who is the Food Service Director at Commu nity Hospital in Toms River, holds a cash fundraiser every year for Feed the Need.

Yanisko’s fundraiser pays for most of the groceries, including green beans, yams, onions, butter, potatoes and much more, Lesniak said. Yanisko prepared over 1,000 meals during the COVID pandemic, which was the only year Feed the Need was canceled.

OCVTS Chef Rosanne DelNero taught the students how to prepare the green bean casserole and stuffing. Chef Donna Squel ero showed them how to prepare the sweet

potatoes, which included marshmallows and onion crisps.

Chef Jill Scott, who teaches Introduction to Culinary Arts to high school juniors and seniors, had organized two assembly lines on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving when the students packed the dinners that consisted of 2 oz. of dark meat, 4 oz. of white meat, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato mash, green bean casserole and gravy.

“They are learning volume feeding, which are far-reaching skills that are used in assisted living facilities, hospitals and manufacturing,” Scott said.

Brick vo-tech student Derek Whittom, who is a junior at Brick Memorial, helped to portion the turkey and prepare the mashed potatoes.

“I always wanted to learn how to cook because I want to work in a restaurant,” he said. “And it’s for a good cause.”

Maille Fitzpatrick, who is a post-second ary student from Bayville, said she enjoyed learning how to debone a turkey.

“It means a lot because this will help a bunch of people,” she said.

Xavion Moore, a senior from Lakewood High School, said his favorite part was cutting up and mashing 300 pounds of potatoes.

Mariah Blevins, a junior from Pinelands High School, said helping people get food for Thanksgiving “is a wonderful oppor tunity; it puts the cherry on top.”

Lesniak said first year students are appre hensive during the massive Thanksgiving food preparation, but “once they get going, they realize the magnitude of Feed the Need.”

The meals will keep for a week because the students plate them cold and keep them cold, he said. They are microwaveable, but Lesniak said he suspects a lot of the meals are eaten cold since many might not have access to a microwave or a stove.

The meals are distributed to a number of non-profit organizations, such as 750 to Jesus is Lord Fellowship in Brick; 180 to DCF (child protective services); 35 to Chambers Bridge Residence; 45 dinners to an at-risk-youth outreach program called TEAM, run by Brick Police Officer Sean Flynn; 210 meals to Seaside Heights Ele mentary School; 45 to Toms River Senior Center, and many others, Lesniak said.

S potlight o n g overnment

Health Department Encourages Flu Shot, COVID-19 Boosters Ahead of Holidays

TRENTON - With holiday gatherings being held by families, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is en couraging everyone 6 months of age and older to get their annual flu shot and COVID-19 booster when eligible, and is urging residents to take precau tions as other respiratory illnesses, including Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV), continue to circulate. New Jersey, as well as much of the rest of the country, has seen an earlier start to the flu season this year. Respiratory Syncytial Virus as well as rhinovirus and enterovirus and COVID-19 are also circulating in the state. NJDOH is mon itoring and watching hospitalizations and pediatric intensive care units daily throughout the state.

“As New Jerseyans begin to gather with friends and family for the upcom ing holidays, it’s important for every one to continue taking the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Getting vaccinated when recommended, practicing good hand and respiratory hygiene, and stay ing home when sick are ways residents can work together to have a happier and healthier holiday season.”

“Getting an annual flu shot will help protect everyone, particularly vulner able residents such as younger children and older adults, from influenza,” said Commissioner Judith Persichilli. “The Department is monitoring these respiratory illnesses closely, and their impact on hospitals and Emergency Departments.”

The federal Centers for Disease Con trol and Prevention (CDC) also recom mends that everyone stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines for their age group. Everyone 6 months of age and

older is eligible to receive a COVID-19 primary series and people 5 years of age and older are recommended to receive the updated booster at least 2 months after their primary series or last monovalent booster.

RSV, which usually circulates in the state from late fall to early spring, causes common cold symptoms in adults and older children, while in younger children and infants, it can cause wheezing and pneumonia. How ever, it can also cause more severe infection. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults.

At the same time, the state is seeing many children with infections in the upper airways and lungs due to rhino virus and enterovirus, which can result in wheezing and breathing difficulties.

Parents should call their pediatrician or a healthcare provider if their child has any of the following symptoms: rapid breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath; ribs pulling in with each breath; is very ill or drowsy; poor eat ing; dehydration; vomiting for more than 24 hours; fever in a child younger than 12 weeks. While these are warning signs, please consult your healthcare provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning.

Individuals can take precautions by continuing to wash their hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, cough into their elbows or sleeves, and get im munized for influenza and COVID-19. Individuals at high risk for severe ill ness and their visitors should consider wearing a high-quality, well-fitting mask which may help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses. Individuals who are sick should remain at home.

Flu vaccination prevents millions of

illnesses and flu-related doctor’s visits each year. Despite these benefits, during the 2021-2022 flu seasons, only 57% of adults (18 and older) and 67.7% of chil dren (6 months –17 years old) in New Jersey received a flu vaccine. Flu vaccination is available at health care provider offices, pharmacies, fed erally qualified health centers and local health departments. Many vaccines are covered by insurers at little to no cost to individuals. In addition, NJDOH’s Vaccine Preventable Disease Program (VPDP) helps to reduce economic bar riers to childhood vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program which offers vaccines at no cost to eligible children through healthcare providers

enrolled in the program. The VPDP also participates in the 317-funded adult program which provides vaccines to uninsured and underinsured adults.

COVID-19 vaccination locations can be found using the NJ Vaccine Appointment Finder or by calling the statewide COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center (855-568-0545). The COVID-19 vaccine is available for free, regardless of insurance status.

“Vaccines have proven to be safe and effec tive,” said Commissioner Persichilli. “We urge all New Jerseyans to get up to date on all rec ommended vaccinations to ensure a safe and healthy holiday season. We especially encour age all New Jerseyans, ages 5 and older, to get the new updated booster to ensure the strongest protection against COVID-19 variants.”

ommunity n ew S

December 2022 Free Nature Programs

JACKSON – Tune into nature, it is the best way to relax! The team at Forest Resource Education Center are ready to show you how with many forest-fo cused educational experiences.

Peruse and pre-register for the smallgroup outdoor nature programs here: eventbrite.com/o/forest-resource-ed ucation-center-31858983647

Below are the following events for the month of December:

Forest Pre-School: Come to the for est and river at FREC to explore the outdoors. We will hike, play and learn about Nature allowing your child’s own interest to guide the day. The Forest Pre-School is geared for kids between 4 and 6 years old. An adult must be pres ent. The program includes 45 minutes exploring along our trails followed by a pinecone craft at our picnic tables. Bring snacks or picnic lunch.

This program meets on December 2 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. out front of the Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor Boulevard, Jackson. Any questions about age requirements con tact: jane.mattson@dep.nj.gov.

Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 15 people for this event and registration is free.

Holiday Greens Craft: Join for an outdoor winter Greens Walk followed by a free, hands-on holiday centerpiece workshop. Dress warm for the weather and bring your own small clippers. Ages 12 and up with an adult. Space is limited to registered persons only.

This program meets on December 10 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and at 1:30 to 3 p.m. out front of the Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor

Boulevard, Jackson. Rainwater is the following day, December 11.

Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 16 people per session Registration is free and open to all persons 12 years plus.

Take a Hike Day: Take A Hike Day is the ideal opportunity to reconnect with the fundamentally important things in life: the fresh air, blue sky, deep rich earth, and all creatures that share our home, the Earth.

Join the staff at FREC to hike and appreciate the things we find along the way on a 1.5 hour walk in the Pinelands. Our naturalists will guide and answer any questions that you may have about this unique Pineland ecology.

Hikes such as this one will be held monthly on the 3rd Thursday on the month now through the winter (which are best days being there are no bugs!) Next hike is December 15 at 1 p.m.

Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Accepting 20 people per hike. Registration is free and open to all persons 10 years plus.

Winter Solstice Hike: Join on the Solstice for a morning walk in search of our three native hollies. Meet at the Forest Resource Education Cen ter for an easy 1 hour, 1 mile Holly Hunt. Maximum number of people is 15. Dress for the weather and cancel for rain.

This program meets on December 21 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. out front of the Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Connor Boulevard, Jackson. Pre-registration only, accepted on first-come basis. Registration is free.

Jackson Memorial High School Presents “Scrooge The Musical”

JACKSON – Jackson Memorial High School presents “Scrooge The Musical” from December 2 through 4. Tickets: $12 for students and seniors and $15 for adults.

Show times:

• December 2 at 6:30 p.m.

• December 3 at 2 p.m.

• December 4 at 2 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting: jm hsnj.booktix.com. You can also get tickets for “Cookies and Crafts with Santa” prior to the December 3 performance. Cookies and Crafts with Santa, December 3 at 11 a.m. Tickets are $10 via email at clarsen@ jacksonsd.org.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

JACKSON – Mayor Michael Reina and the Jackson Township Recreation Department presents Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremo ny on December 3 at 4:30 p.m. at Town Hall,

93 West Veterans Highway.

Visit with Santa Claus and leave your letters in Santa’s mailbox. Enjoy entertain ment and refreshments.

C ommunity n ew S

Toyland 2022

JACKSON – Mayor Reina & Jackson Township Senior Center presents Toy land 2022 on December 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Jackson Senior Center, 45 Don Connor Boulevard. Walk through the Winter Wonderland, visit our train room, Frozen, Gotham City, Holiday Castle and our newest display, Toy Story. Leave a letter in Santa’s mailbox and visit the Gift Shop. Come and see Santa’s Helpers and meet

your favorite super heroes and story book characters. Kids will enjoy free face painting, tattoos, balloon art, and juice and a cookie for each child. While supplies last, kids 10 and under receive a fee “dressed” Teddy Bear from Mr. & Mrs. Claus.

Food and refreshments will be available for purchase: hot dogs, nachos, hot Philly Pretzels, baked goods, hot chocolate, coffee, soda and water.

Letters To Santa

JACKSON – Mayor Michael Reina has once again scheduled a meeting with Santa Claus to personally hand deliver Santa letters written by children from Jackson Township. In order to ensure that Santa has enough time to write a letter back before Christmas, all letters

must be received in the Mayor’s office by December 9.

Letters should be addressed to: Santa Claus c/o Mayor Michael Reina, 95 West Veterans Highway, Jackson, NJ 08527. Please be sure that the child’s full name, age, and address are clearly legible.

Menorah Lighting

JACKSON

Bat

4:40

–

Shalom Hadassah presents Menorah Lighting on December 20 at

p.m. at Town Hall, 95 W Veterans Highway. Candles will be lit by Rabbi Shmuel Naparstek.

The Comings And Goings Of Hibernating And Migrating Species

Thomaier Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

You may already be in touch with nature and understand that there are those species who will vacate their native area, while new ones will arrive. Then there are those who will live here all year long. Wildlife has a unique way of coping with climate change, food shortages and reproductive cycles.

Hibernating animals will take a break from showing up each day. Bats and large rodents such as groundhogs are those species who slow down their metabolisms, requiring less food due to their lack of activity. The black bear prepares for hibernation by consuming as much food as they can to last them thru the hibernation period. Because their size is so large, they don’t allow their body temperature to drop.

Squirrels, deer, foxes, coyotes, rac coons, and skunks don’t hibernate. They will remain here doing their best to survive through the colder months. Chipmunks will enter a restless hi bernation as winter approaches and become less active from late fall thru the winter months.

Migrating birds of New Jersey fly south spending their winters where food is available. Thrushes, vireos, hummingbirds and warblers are some

examples of birds who will leave the area. Since migrating birds travel long distances to support their climate and food needs, new arrivals to New Jersey will also occur. For those birds our climate is warmer than their northern states. Snow geese, snowy owls, loons, just to name a few, will come to winter over in the Pine Barrens and along the coast. Seals from New England will arrive in large numbers at Sandy Hook and Barnegat Light.

A few birds who will stick with us during those cold months will be the various species of sparrows and finch es, titmice, woodpeckers, cardinals, and blue jays.

Feeding during the colder monthsplease do not feed ANY human food. Human food does not provide daily re quirements (and then what’s the point?) and can be dangerous and sometimes fatal. Instead consult your local regu lations on feeding and stick to the food sources that are formulated to provide the nutrition they need.

The information for this article from was gathered through multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper New Jersey State and/or Federal permits.

Renee A.

Around the JerSey Shore

Residents Urged To Destroy Spotted Lanternfly Egg Masses

NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Depart ment of Agriculture Secretary Douglas Fisher is encouraging New Jersey res idents to help take part in eliminating spotted lanternfly egg masses. While the adult spotted lanternflies cannot survive the freezing temperatures, they do lay egg masses that survive the winter and then hatch in late April or early May.

“The more of these egg masses that can be destroyed now and before spring, the less of these nuisance pests there will be next year,” Secretary Fisher said.

Spotted lanternfly egg masses hold between 30 to 50 eggs of the invasive species. One sign to look for to see where spotted lanternfly has been is a black sooty mold on a tree. The spotted lanternfly prefers the Tree of Heaven, which is common in New Jersey. The egg masses can be found on almost any kind of surface, including on ve hicles, park benches, steps or outdoor stairways, or on the sides of buildings.

The egg masses can be scraped with a credit card (or something similar). It is important to press against the egg mass and hear the eggs popping as they are being scraped. The popping sound signifies the eggs are being destroyed. Scraping cards are available at the Rut gers Extension office in each county.

Since October 1, 2021, NJDA and USDA staff have scraped nearly 340,000 egg masses and treated almost 20,000 acres.

While the Spotted Lanternfly is not a threat to humans or animals, it is known to feed on numerous types of vegetation.

The Spotted Lanternfly is native to Asia, but arrived in the U.S. in Berks County, Pa., on a shipment in 2014. The species has been advancing ever since. Due to the insect’s excellent hitchhik ing ability, there are now 14 states that have confirmed populations.

For homeowner and business resourc es, and other information about spotted lanternfly go to badbug.nj.gov.

Ocean County’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Ceremony on December 7 at 4:45 p.m. at 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River. For more information call 732-929-2000.

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners cordially invites you to Ocean County’s Christmas Tree Lighting

Officers:

wall were built. However, only 49 miles of new wall was built – the rest was either improvements or a replacement of an existing barrier.

The cost for the wall has been in the billions of dollars, and some of that had been directed away from national defense funding for this.

The Associated Press reported in the summer that although President Biden halted former President Trump’s wall project, Biden pledged to fill four gaps near Yuma. There was also 13 miles built by Biden’s administration in Texas.

Critics of the wall have stated that a wall only works if you have someone watching it. Customs and Border Pro tection documents leaked in March of this year showed that Trump’s new sec tions of wall had been breached 3,272 times, mostly with common power tools found at hardware stores.

The training in both Arizona county locations led the two Ocean County law enforcement officials to similar con clusions. There’s not enough manpower to cover the border. In Cochese County, four Sheriff’s officers patrol an 80mile stretch through the mountains.

It all changed when the current admin istration came into power according to Hyatt. Materials intended to finish the border wall all sit by the wayside and are not being utilized to complete the job.

The wall itself was intended to be constructed of steel pillars filled with concrete.

Nonetheless, Hyatt admitted the fence still came with limitations. Those with a will could find their way to go through it, under it or over it. The bottoms could be torched with a hole allowing someone to slip through un derneath.

“The cartels could have a 10-year-old kid sitting there with a hacksaw for two or three days,” said Hyatt. “But you’d still have more chance to catch someone by just having this open door and unfinished fence.”

When Mercado and Hyatt met with the

Yuma County Sheriff’s officers, they sat through a presentation document ing how much crime had skyrocketed as a result of the open borders. The number of murders, thefts, burglaries and violent crimes showed a dramatic increase.

Mercado, who was born in Puerto Rico, had the benefit of understanding the language of many of the people who made the trip across the border. When he and Hyatt participated in a traffic stop, Mercado took the opportunity to ask questions.

“There were two illegal aliens in the back of the car, and I spoke with them,” Mercado shared. “One told me it was his second time trying to get across.”

The man said he was from Mexico and that his plan was to come to the states to find work because it was financially tough in his country. Mercado pressed to find out if a fee was involved in making the trip.

“At first he denied it and I kept talking to him,” said Mercado. “He eventually said his family paid half the money and would pay the rest when he got to the safe house.”

The total amount owed in this case was $6,000 – seemingly worth a pos sible new beginning.

While people from Puerto Rico can travel throughout the 50 states as American citizens, Mercado easily re lated to the reason his parents decided to leave their birthplace. They wanted a better life for their children – just as is the case for many who take the risk of crossing the border.

“It’s just so frustrating because we have a problem and people don’t ad dress it,” Mercado shared. “We need to fix it and create some kind of program or temporary visa that lets people stay here legally if they have no criminal background. Let them pay their taxes here.”

Hyatt nodded his head in agreement. The trip to pick up the fugitive at the border turned out to be an eye open er for both county law enforcement officers. Both credited Mastronardy for providing them with the oppor tunity to see the chaos at the border in person.

Chris Lundy contributed to this story

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

5 Reasons To Visit Us This Winter

Ear Cleaning Cold weather can harden earwax, causing discomfort and muffled hearing. Come visit us and we will use Otoscopy to determine if you have im pacted wax and what the next steps are to remove it. As a general rule, if you’re already wearing hearing aids, this alone will increase the production of ear wax which can in turn effect the performance of the hearing instruments.

Hearing Aid Tune-Ups and Extra Bat teries Winter is a tough season for your hearing aids. Low temperatures affect the functionality of nearly all personal electronics and drain batteries quickly. Changes in temperature create conden sation, which can cause problems. Bring your aids in for a tune-up and inspection. We can ensure they are in great shape and send you home with an optional dehumidifier to store them in, along with extra batteries. If your currently wearing rechargeable hearing aid battery systems, in many cases we can check the integrity of the rechargeable battery.

New Tech Once your devices are more than four years old, we’ll need to make sure they’re still meeting your needs. From Bluetooth to telehealth compati bility, we can offer the perfect option to customize your hearing experience and filter out the annoying background noise that comes with busy shopping centers and family gatherings. If you’re due for

an upgrade, we can fit you with the latest model to keep you hearing everything you want and nothing you don’t. Many of the new hearing aid technologies utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and/or deep neural networking to maximize your abil ity to hearing particularly in noisy places.

Warranty Expiration Depending on when you purchased your hearing aids, your warranty may be expiring soon. We can help you maximize and protect your investment by cleaning, checking, and performing selected repairs while the de vices remain under warranty. Please keep in mind that if your hearing instruments break down and are “out of warranty” the typical repair cost is $350-$400.00.

Ear Infections - Flu and cold season is upon us! Any upper respiratory virus has the potential to cause a middle ear infection, which can lead to hearing loss if left untreated. If you come down with an earache, ear pain, and/or your ears feel “blocked”, please make an appointment with us so we can help determine the root cause of these issues.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always avail able to answer your questions about hearing health. His offices are located in Toms River, Manahawkin, and Whiting and can be reached by calling 732-8183610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-9788946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www. gardenstatehearing.com.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

OUTPATIENT REHAB:

•

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

Triphala Is A Remarkable Gut Soother For These 9 Problems

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Most experts today agree on one thing and that is that good health begins in the gut. And since herbal remedies represent the most ancient medicines of our healthcare history, I would like to focus today on one particular supplement that is foundational. It’s called Triphala. “Tri” refers to the number three, and “phala” means fruits. Triphala is a combination of three fruits: Haritaki, Amal aki, and Bibhitaki.

Many people experience gastrointestinal (GI) problems, including bloating, flatulence or abdominal pain. No matter the cause of these problems, Triphala, a unique botanical formula, has a long history of therapeutic value!

Before I get to the potential uses of Triphala, it’s important to note that reducing GI symp toms requires dietary changes, a good deal of time, and different methods! It is not like you take a pill (for example an acid blocker) and you’re good. That’s one thing that I think some people forget when it comes to relieving chronic GI symptoms.

buy a bottle of Triphala supplement, you are getting all 3 of those herbs. The supplement is available at health food stores nationwide, online retailers and most holistic-oriented clinics like at your acupuncturist’s clinic or naturopath’s office.

Do not take Triphala if you are pregnant or taking blood pressure medication. It may interact with many different medications, so please check with your pharmacist or physician if you take warfarin, or a statin cholesterol-reducing medication, or even an antipsychotic or antidepressant.

The herbal supplement is not intended for serious GI concerns such as appendicitis, pancreatitis, obstructions, jaundice or any major illness.

Historically speaking, herbal remedies are considered among the most powerful meth ods of supporting good health. Triphala is multi-tasing and can support many aspects of gastrointestinal health, but again, not emergencies.

Triphala is usually taken without regard to meals. It has a very mild diuretic effect, which some people do not even notice, but for that reason, some people do not take it at bedtime.

Dried herbal extracts of the above 3 fruits are what constitute Triphala so when you

Triphala has a very soothing anti-inflam matory effect on the entire gut, and can bring relief to some people very quickly. I have written a much longer article about Triphala and its impact on various cancer outcomes. I’ve found positive studies for Triphala’s use in pancreatic, gastric, prostate, colon and breast cancer! This article is available if you are interested, find it posted at my website, suzycohen.com.

368 Lakehurst Road | Suite 305

Toms River, NJ 08755 732-473-1123 1301 Rte 72 | Ste 305 | Manahawkin, NJ 08050 609-597-9195

211 W Millstream Road Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 609-758-9595

Around the JerSey Shore

3rd Annual Victorian Holiday Open House

TOMS RIVER – On December 3, the Ocean County Historical Society will again be offering its very popular Victo rian Holiday Open House. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“I love bringing my grandchildren to have their pictures taken with the Vic torian Santa Claus,” stated OCHS Board member Pat Moore.

Santa will be available for picture tak ing from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The festive

day also includes tours of the house, a model train show, gifts for children and refreshments. Best of all, the event is free to the public.

“The day is really fun for the entire family and I run into so many old friends there,” according to Pat Moore.

The Historical Society is located in Downtown Toms River at 26 Hadley Avenue For additional information, call Jeff at 609-339-9134.

Family Awareness In Addiction Recovery

TOMS RIVER – Join Quantum Be havioral Health Services every last Wednesday of the month for informa tive discussions surrounding the role of family in addiction recovery. They will discuss things like boundaries, rebuild ing trust, and repairing relationships.

Meetings are in person at their facil ity and can also be attended via live stream, by visiting qtreatment.com/ family-awareness and clicking the link provided. They take place on the last Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

LAKEHURST – Beacon of Life will be holding a Toy/Food Drive to Benefit Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

Drop off

or

items to Beacon of Life, 800 Route 70 Lakehurst, by December 12.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

S. Galella Esq.

By: Marc S. Galella, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

During the process of purchasing a home, many buyers are concerned with the bottom line and look for ways to cut costs. One of the first items they may choose to forego to save money is to opt out of ordering a survey. This article is intended to provide information which will assist the purchaser in making a well-informed decision whether to obtain or forego a survey.

Many purchasers are not aware of all the various important components that a survey can disclose. A survey is not just a simple drawing showing boundary lines and location of the dwelling, but it also delineates right of ways, easements, encroachments, and/or gaps between property lines. The survey can also confirm the location of a water way, an existing improvement and determine whether all the structures on the property you are looking to purchase are within the property boundary lines such as sheds, pools, retaining walls and fences. Perhaps the most important pieces of information a survey will provide are the property’s zoning classification, dimension and size, which will allow you to determine if the property conforms to the local lot size requirements.

Once the survey is obtained your attor ney will forward it to the title company, who will also research the information contained therein. If the survey accurately shows that there are no property line en croachments then the title company will not require any exceptions in its policy, which will allow the title company to provide coverage and defend against any

one who, in the future, challenges the accuracy of the property lines. If you do not have an accurate and current survey prior to clos ing then any disputes, whether it is with the seller, a neighbor or a governmental agency, as to the location of a fence, shed, or any larger structure such as a pool, deck or an addition will become yours to resolve. These disputes can be costly and you possibly may be precluded from seeking recourse from the previous owner.

The basic survey cost is around $650-800 and of course the cost may be more if the property is very large or has irregular shape. If you chose to have metal stakes installed at the corners then that may in crease the cost of the survey. These mark ers are important for those homeowners who, after making the purchase, want to install a fence, pool, shed, or an addition to the dwelling.

The purchase of a home or lot may be overwhelming but the attorneys at R.C. Shea and Associates can assist you through that process. The law firm of R.C. Shea & Associates, Counsellors at Law, is a full service law firm representing and advising clients in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate Litigation, Personal Injury, General Litigation, Real Estate Law, Medicaid Law, Medical Malpractice, Workers’ Compensation, Land Use and Planning Law, Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney and much more. Call or visit our office Toms River office at 732-5051212, 244 Main Street, Toms River, email us at Rshea@rcshea.com or visit our website at www.rcshea.com

Marc

Every school district adopted policies to work the state guidelines into their curriculum their own way, so the districts still had some amount of home rule. Many already had feedback from parents.

“They mandated it to be taught to public school children. The bill also prevents the State Board of Education from adopting or mandating any similar curriculum standards in the future,” Councilman Borrelli said.

He added, “under this bill local school boards of education would also establish a curriculum advisory committee of parents and guardians of students enrolled in the school district. Their meetings would be open to the public. New health and edu cation curriculum standards would then be adopted by local school boards within 100 days of the bill’s enactment.

“Parents and guardians should be in the know and in agreement of what is being taught to their kids in the schools. They are the parents and guardians,” Borrelli added. He noted support of this bill fur thers the Council’s efforts “to fight back against the wrong policies of the state education bureaucracy, Governor Phil Murphy and the Democrat controlled state legislature.

“Jackson will continue to stand up for parents’ rights and what is right and de cent and what makes just common sense

in protecting our school children from totally age-inappropriate instruction and indoctrination,” Councilman Borrelli added.

Councilman Steven Chisholm said ac cording to a recent news article “Jackson was the safest large town in New Jersey. That is pretty good news for those of us that live here so congratulations to our Jackson PD (Police Department) for ac tually helping it make it so.”

Chisholm noted the police department’s recent arrest of a shoplifting ring at the Jackson Outlets shopping plaza. “Kudos to them for helping to keep our town safe. That is why we support the Jackson PDthey are a great bunch.”

Council members each offered con gratulations to Mayor Michael Reina, Jennifer Kuhn and Scott Sargent on their recent victories in the election for mayor and the two council seats that each have four-year terms.

Referencing the election, Chisholm remarked “this is the greatest and freest country in the world and we’ve become a laughing stock. Elections from Mercer County to Las Vegas, Michigan to Ari zona a week plus and they can’t figure it out. We’ve had Jimmy Carter go to third world nations to be an observer and this is what we get here at home.”

“Florida had a problem 20 plus years ago. They can now count votes seven and a half million of them by 9 p.m. These other states can’t get it right and we wonder why everybody doubts the effectiveness and

results of our elections in these different areas,” Chisholm added.

The councilman said, “this needs to be fixed. We need to fix our own house this is a problem. Get it right America. If this is what we are going to do, this is what we need to have happen. If we can send rockets into space, why can we not fix an election machine?”

Chisholm criticized a local state sen ator’s recently introduced legislation mandating grief classes for high school students in New Jersey. “In an of itself this doesn’t sound like a bad idea. Nothing wrong with that and God knows we’ve had plenty of problems with people and grief.

“Suicide is through the roof. Drug abuse is through the roof but the question becomes is this really what we should be mandating?” Councilman Chisholm asked.

“How about we mandate English, read ing, writing, arithmetic - things that can actually make New Jersey one of the top five instead of one of the bottom five states to live in the states,” Chisholm added. “Perhaps we can make America ahead of China and 20 other countries again.”

The councilman instead suggested that grief counseling be a matter of the fami lies, the church and social workers. “The government should be focused on…how about civics? How about you teach our kids what our country is all about because our nation is the freest in the nation be cause they are not seeing that.”

He also advocated for Sauickie’s bill in

hopes of “getting that fixed.”

Council Vice President Andrew Kern congratulated Sauickie who was his for mer running mate four years ago, on his election to the state assembly.

Council President Martin Flemming said, “I to wish to congratulate our mayor and welcome our new councilman and councilwoman. Hopefully we can work well together.”

Upcoming Events

Councilwoman Samara O’Neill not ed that “the holidays are upon us. We recently adopted stigma free on mental health. Stress levels are high and anxiety levels are high. If you or a family member notice anything reach out and get help. Jackson surrounds and supports that and you aren’t alone in that fight.

“We will have our tree lighting on December 3 at 4:30 p.m. in Town Hall and we have Toyland that same weekend from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 3 and 4. On December 20 we also have the Menorah Lighting at 4:40 p.m. at Jackson Municipal building,” she added.

The councilwoman also announced that basketball registration was going on at the Recreation Department and wrestling registration was still open “so if your kids are looking for interesting things to do take a look at the Rec De partment list and sign up to get them involved in activities.”

Chris Lundy contributed to this story.

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate

Jackson - House For Sale By Own

er. Private Road Sits On 1.5 Acres.

2 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths, unfinished full basement, 1 car attached ga rage, baseboard heat. For sale as is $489,000. 732-691-9845. (1)

For Rent

Don't Miss The Opportunity Of Rent ing - A single-family home in Howell. For more details call Rut from Lifestyle International Realty (908)344-7230. (50)

Misc.

Notice of Cessation of Services

by Maureen Kubisz DVM, dba

Total Pet Hospital LLC, on October 14, 2022. Medical records will be stored online by Idexx Laboratories, Inc, One Idexx Drive, Westbrook, Maine 04092. Send records re quests by email to totalpethospital@ gmail.com, or by mail to PO Box 8881, Hamilton, NJ 08650. (47)

Items For Sale

CHRISTMAS PASTELES - Puerto Rican Tradition. Pork or Chicken $40/ dozen, $75/2 dozen, $110/3 dozen. Call/text Cary 908-770-8537. (2)

Three piece queen bedroom set like new, $394. was origionally $1,200. Cat carrier $18. Walker with wheels and seat $39. Beige carpet runner 25 ft. 732-503-3263. (51)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crys tal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Blues, Reggae, Soul. Very good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (52)

Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/ dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, ward robes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n)

Buying Selmer Saxophones And Other Vintage Models - Also buying World War II Military items. Cash Paid! 609-581-8290. Email: mymilitarytoys@optonline.net. (31)

CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, turntables, musical instru-ments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (30)

CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n)

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)

Cash Paid LP Records - 33/45's, reel to reel's. Fast response, we answer the phone 732-829-5908, 24/7, Eddie. (41)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL

RY Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)

Help Wanted

HIRING NOW!! The Goddard School of Toms River Route 70 is urgently hiring Assistant Teachers and Teacher Aides to float between the In fant through School Age classrooms. No teaching experience necessary. On-the-job training provided. Mul tiple PT and FT positions available. Call 732-363-5530 or email dtoms river2nj3@goddardschools.com to schedule an interview today! (t/n)

ISO Experienced Body Shop WelderTo work on old car. No schedule. Call Bart 201-249-2400. (43)

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Trans portation needed. Long term com mitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

Dental Assistant - We’re currently looking to hire a qualified DENTAL ASSISTANT. Will train the right per son. Call 732-938-2800 for details. (2)

Garden State Medical Centercurrently looking for qualified candi dates to fill their medical assistant, re ceptionist, and surgical technician posi tions. If you would like to apply or have any questions, call 732-202-3000. (45)

Website Skills Required - Wordpress, Adobe, Maestro, Google Workspace. Key person needed. Great opportuni ty. Part time. Dependable, committed. Whiting area. 609-284-3142. (47)

Services

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interi or exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (28)

Anyone Interested In Having Their - Office, home or apartment cleaned, contact Diane. Honest and reliable. Free estimates. 845-762-9952. (49)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)

Custom House Painter - Pays at tention to detail, interior, cracks, nail pops,wall repair. Benjamin Moore paints. Wayne 908-327-5471. (52)

MY HANDY CREW - Home re pairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwor,k all your home main tenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (46)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardwork ing, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605 (t/n)

Services

Experienced Home Health Aid(s) Available hourly or 24/7 and ready to assist you with personal care, medication monitoring, driving, grocery shopping, cooking, light housekeeping, companionship, etc. (including patients suffering from Dementia/Althheimer's or any other disabilities). References available. Call 732-910-8869. (42)

Absolute best home improvements!"Building the shore since 1984" Additions, carpentry, windows & doors, roofing & siding, painting & staining, flooring, kitchens & baths, finished basements, masonry, fencing, custom decks, fully insured, license #13VH11804800. $ave. Call Brien 732-850-5060. (28)

House Cleaning, Painting, Shop ping, - Window cleaning, laundry, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Very good prices. Call 732-7735078 or 848-287-3944. (43)

Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, sid ing, windows. Repairs on small jobs. Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned. Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (19)

Computer Tutoring for Seniors –Retired, “Microsoft Certified” in structor. Very Reasonable rates. Very patient with slow learners. I’ll teach you in the comfort of your home on your computer. I can trouble shoot your slow computer! I also teach iPhone and iPad. I set up new com puters at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 special ist. I can also build a beautiful small business website at a fraction of the going rates. Special Projects always welcome! Tony 732-997-8192. (t/n)

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Dem olition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster ser vice provided by A901 Licensed Haul er ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (15)

DOWLING FENCE LLC - WE'VE RECENTLY MOVED TO TOMS RIVER! CALL US FOR ALL YOUR FENCING NEEDS. RESI DENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL, BEST PRICING AND WORK MANSHIP! CALL 732-771-5150 OR 732-644-0627. (46)

Property/Management - Brick repair, brick restoration, mulch, stone. Spring/Fall cleanups. pruning, concrete repairs. Call Ken 732-814-7743. (42)

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shop ping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family func tions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

Santucci Painting LLC - We paint it all, interior and exterior, drywall re pair, pressure washing, decks, stained. Email santwag@aol.com. 908-3275471. 13VH05784200. (41)

Prepare for power outages today - with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)

Nor’easter Painting and Stain ing, LLC - Interior and exte rior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)

Services Services Services

Certified Home Health Aides - Need ed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and in sured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)

Music Lessons In Your HomeBy state certified instrumen tal music teacher. Please call 732-350-4427 for more informa tion. All are welcome. (3)

PQ Painting & Home Improve ment Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Win ner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total =

photo of the

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Garden State Hearing And Balance Center

Acommitment to pa tients, coupled with technology and value have set Garden State Hearing & Balance Center apart for years, with recent investments making the treatment of hear ing loss and similar conditions more manageable than ever.

The practice, which has offices in Toms River, Mana hawkin and Whiting, was the first in the United States to be Audigy-Certified, a testa ment to its adherence to the industry’s best practices that are required for certification.

“Any business that is Au digy-Certified, from a best practices standpoint, is in the top two to three percent in the coun try,” said Dr. Isidore Kirsh – commonly known as Dr. Izzy – found er and director of the practice, who holds a doctorate degree (Ph.D.) from the Union Insti tute & University.

The Center performs testing for patients with auditory pro cessing disorders and testing for people who are suffering from tinnitus – ringing in the ears – as well as hearing loss and balance issues.

Dr. Kirsh’s practice includes state-of-the art equipment to evaluate hearing and balance issues, which are often related to inner ear disorders.

“Seventy percent of patients who complain of balance problems usually have an inner ear component,” Dr.

Kirsh said.

Hearing loss, unfortunately, often goes untreated since it is not painful and often not a pri ority for patients. But for the 40 million people who suffer from it, Dr. Kirsh explains, it is important that they seek diagnosis and treatment to improve their life and ensure good health.

“Over the last few years, there have been a lot of stud ies that show a relationship between untreated hearing loss and memory deficits such as dementia and Alzheimer’s, which means your suscep tibility to obtaining these memory issues increases as a function of the hearing loss that you have,” Dr. Kirsh said. With rare exception, the only way to help preserve your hearing is through a hearing aid –sometimes a stumbling block for patients who are self-con scious about wearing one. But technological improvements have led to the devices becom ing virtually invisible, and more helpful than ever.

“They can be 100 percent invisible, they can have Blue tooth as well as Wi-Fi capa bilities,” Dr. Kirsh explained. “You can stream a signal through your iPhone or your television, even movies and Broadway shows, right to your hearing aid. Most of today’s hearing aids are very inconspicuous, meaning the

Pictured is Dr. Isidore Kirsh. His offices are located at 250 Route 37 West, Toms River, 732573-4020; 53 Nautilus Drive, Suite C, 1st Floor, Manahawkin, 609-489-5415; 75 Lacey Road Ste 1B, Whiting, 732-606-4912. Visit gardenstatehearing.com for more information.

cosmetic issue is really not an issue anymore.”

Hearing aids also can have features such as GPS locator capability.

“The technology is improv ing significantly every year,” Dr. Kirsh said.

For patients, hearing aids can be financed interest free for 24 months, and Dr. Kirsh’s practice provides free battery replacements for life. Patients can also return a hearing aid during a 75 day trial period, during which time they return to Garden State Hearing &

Balance Center a minimum of three times to check on their progress.

“We don’t over schedule or double book, so people are generally seen on time,” said Dr. Kirsh.

The practice has thrived on accessibility for patients, investments in technology, and the easing of the financial aspect of treatment.

“We try to give people as much value as possible, and

that really separates us from some of the other hearing care professionals out there,” Bet ter hearing is a priceless gift! Dr. Kirsh said.

“We don’t over schedule or double book, so people are generally seen on time.”

Dr. Kirsh

Across 1 One may be plant ed on a cheek

One who gets fa mous just for kicks?

Volunteer’s words

Use sound to get around

Large volume

Reaction that can be grateful or sarcastic

Call from a brooder

Getting better

Arrive by car, say

Perception

Make a typo ... or miss one

Surprising sound

Setting of van Gogh’s “CafŽ Ter race at Night”

Stop shooting

Let the air out of

Area where

37 Activity

cube user

2

Film genre for Shy amalan’s “The Hap pening”

Competitor who’s over the hump?

Prepare to talk to a tyke, maybe

Prepared 6 Figure eight, in tango parlance

Harry Potter love interest Cho __

Independent __

South Bend suburb

Larva that attacks Valentine’s Day plants

Ran playfully

Fabulist’s work

Buckets or barrels

Out of a job, per haps?: Abbr. 20 Trivia site 23 __ fly

Arena for the stars

Annual corona

(c)2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC. skateboarding likely originated,

49

Croquetas or car acoles

Microsoft co-founder Allen

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Norm-challeng ing

Role in the Mon teverdi opera “The Coronation of Pop paea”

Big-screen TV site

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

By

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Sometimes we just have to dig down into our reserves and make it happen. You may need to exert extra effort to meet deadlines as the week begins. Your sincerity and commitment to excellence should be noticed.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Someone you think of as a friend may want more than that. It might be better to wait until a few more days pass to focus on romance. In the upcom ing week, concentrate on making money to take home the winnings.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Your ideas can work if you do things more efficiently. When you remain fully transparent, you never have to worry about talking your way out of having put a spin on the facts. A partner could set a shining example of excellence.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Make lists and stay organized so everything gets remembered and gets done. If you fulfill all of your obligations and honor your commitments, you can enjoy some personal time to relax and reboot without guilt.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In the upcoming week you could decide to follow through on a lifelong dream. Create a new you by selecting qualities to emulate from the people you admire. Adopting a winning mindset and making strong choices can take you far.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Come to terms with a partner or friend. It takes two to make problems and it takes two to solve them. In the week ahead, you may have an ideal opportunity to negotiate an agreeable compromise or iron out differences.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): The longer you live, the more opportunities you have to learn. It would be wise to be skeptical of facts early this week. The spotlight may be on those in close connection, so it is up to you to gracefully accept waiting in the wings.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23- Nov. 21): Where there is a will, there’s a way. Your determina tion to succeed, especially when working in a partnership, can give you an added edge in any undertaking. Watch out for ways to save money in the week ahead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You might be given a starring role in a creative project or other activity. Confusing conversations could be difficult to sort out now. It makes sense to be prepared for extra bills in the coming week.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may have blinders on because your attention is riveted on your work or a key project. A partner or loved one might provide the common sense you need to hear to finalize a decision as the week unfolds.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): A frosty mood could quickly melt away when warmth is applied. A few thoughtful and sincere words can change someone’s attitude toward you. Keep working diligently in the week ahead to complete a creative project.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Give your self plenty of time to find the right response; don’t impulsively take action over what is probably just a misunderstanding. Take what ever you are offered in the week ahead and you should be content with it.

LOOKING FOR A LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY MENU ADDITION? THIS IS THE EASIEST SIDE DISH TO MAKE

By America’s Test Kitchen

CHIVE SOUR CREAM

In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 table spoon minced fresh chives, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. For extra zing, stir in 1 minced garlic clove.

GARAM MASALA YOGURT

In a small bowl, stir togeth er 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garam masala, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.

ROASTED FINGERLING POTATOES Serves 4 to 6

2 pounds fingerling or small red potatoes, cut in half lengthwise 2 tablespoons extra- virgin

olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper

1. Adjust oven rack to lowest position and heat oven to 450 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parch ment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, oil, salt, and pep per. Use your hands to toss potatoes and coat evenly with oil and seasonings.

3. Transfer potatoes to the baking sheet. Turn each potato cut side down and spread potatoes into a sin gle layer. Bake until skins are wrinkled and spotty brown, 30 to 35 minutes.

4. Place baking sheet on cooling rack and let cool for 5 minutes. Serve.

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2022 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

For the week of DEC 3 - DEC 9

Jeraldine Saunders

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.